If you're looking for a quick and easy meal, 1 package (227 g) Orange Chicken is a great option. With just 280 calories, it offers a tasty and satisfying meal that's perfect for lunch or dinner. In this article, we'll cover everything you need to know about Orange Chicken, from its ingredients and preparation to its nutritional value and health benefits.
Orange Chicken is a popular Chinese-American dish that is made up of crispy chicken pieces coated in a sweet and tangy orange sauce. The sauce is typically made with orange juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger, giving it a unique and delicious flavor. The chicken is usually deep-fried, giving it a crispy texture that perfectly complements the sauce.
In this article, we'll explore some practical tips and strategies for preparing and serving Orange Chicken, as well as some healthy alternatives to this classic dish.
What is Orange Chicken?
The dish has a relatively short history, having first been popularized in the United States in the 1980s. Orange Chicken is now one of the most popular dishes in Chinese-American cuisine and is enjoyed by people all over the world. The chicken used in Orange Chicken is typically boneless and skinless, and is cut into small pieces before being dredged in a batter made from cornstarch and egg. The chicken is then deep-fried until crispy and golden brown, before being coated in the orange sauce. The sauce used in Orange Chicken is typically made from orange juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger. The sauce is sweet and tangy, and perfectly complements the crispy chicken. It is usually served with steamed rice or noodles.
Ingredients of Orange Chicken
Here is a complete list of ingredients required for making Orange Chicken: - 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces - 1/2 cup cornstarch, divided
Calories in Orange Chicken
Here is a breakdown of the nutritional information for one serving (227 g) of Orange Chicken: - Calories: 280 - Total Fat: 10g
How to prepare Orange Chicken?
Here is a step-by-step guide to making Orange Chicken: 1. In a large bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup cornstarch and 1/4 cup water. 2. Add the chicken to the bowl and toss to coat.
Benefits of Eating Orange Chicken
Here are some of the benefits of eating Orange Chicken: - High in protein: Chicken is a great source of protein, which is important for building and repairing muscle tissue. - Contains vitamin C: Orange juice is a good source of vitamin C, which is important for maintaining a healthy immune system.
Is Orange Chicken healthy?
Here are some of the reasons why Orange Chicken may not be the healthiest choice: - High in calories: Orange Chicken is a relatively high-calorie dish, with one serving (227 g) containing approximately 280 calories. - High in sodium: The soy sauce used in Orange Chicken is high in sodium, which can contribute to high blood pressure.
Alternatives to Orange Chicken
Here are some healthier alternatives to Orange Chicken: - Grilled chicken with mixed vegetables - Baked chicken with sweet potatoes
Some tips for serving Orange Chicken
- Serve with steamed rice or noodles to make the dish more filling. - Top with sesame seeds or chopped scallions for a little extra flavor. - Serve with a side of steamed vegetables to add some nutritional value to the meal.
How to store Orange Chicken leftovers?
Here are some tips for storing Orange Chicken leftovers: - Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. - Reheat the chicken in the microwave or in a pan on the stove.
Conclusion
In this article, we've covered everything you need to know about Orange Chicken, from its ingredients and preparation to its nutritional value and health benefits. We've also provided some tips and strategies for preparing and serving Orange Chicken, as well as some healthy alternatives to this classic dish. Whether you're cooking it at home or ordering it from your favorite Chinese restaurant, Orange Chicken is sure to be a crowd-pleaser that satisfies your taste buds.
FAQ About Orange Chicken
1. What is Orange Chicken?
Orange Chicken is a popular Chinese-American dish that consists of breaded and fried chicken pieces coated in a sweet and tangy orange sauce.
2. How many calories are in a package of Orange Chicken?
A package of Orange Chicken weighing 227 g contains 280 calories.
3. Is Orange Chicken healthy?
While Orange Chicken can be delicious, it is not necessarily healthy. The dish is often high in calories, sodium, and fat due to the breading and frying of the chicken, as well as the sugar-laden orange sauce. Consuming Orange Chicken in moderation as part of a balanced diet is recommended.
4. How is Orange Chicken usually served?
Orange Chicken is typically served as a main dish with rice and vegetables, such as broccoli or snap peas. It can also be paired with noodles or used as a filling for wraps or sandwiches.
5. Can Orange Chicken be made at home?
Yes, Orange Chicken can be made at home with a variety of recipes available online. Homemade versions may be healthier and can be customized to include more vegetables or have a spicier kick if desired.